Israel's Foreign Ministry Slams 'NezA' Film as 'Pure Propaganda'

Israel's Foreign Ministry issued a strong condemnation of the documentary film 'NezA' (Accidental Damage), labeling it 'pure propaganda created by extremists serving the narrative of murderous terrorists.' The ministry stated that the film is another element in the anti-Israel campaign that began after the October 7th attacks, fueled by a coalition of the radical left and Islamist movements.

The ministry asserted that the film is fabricated, built on lies and distortions, with the clear aim of inciting anti-Israel sentiment and contributing to the delegitimization and dehumanization of Israel. It highlighted that the film's serious accusations are based on anonymous sources without credible evidence or documentation.

Specifically addressing a claim that the IDF approved a planned strike despite an expected 500 civilian casualties, the Foreign Ministry declared, 'This is a lie. This never happened. Never. The IDF would never approve such an operational plan.' The ministry suggested there is a deliberate method behind the dissemination of such allegations.

'NezA,' by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Shore, has sparked controversy after winning a jury prize at the Venice Film Festival. The film features testimonies from 24 IDF officers who describe procedures and systems they claim are used to harm civilians in Gaza. The film received a lengthy standing ovation at its premiere. It is scheduled to screen at the San Sebastian Film Festival next week, followed by the Bologna Film Festival and a North American premiere at the New York Film Festival later this month.

The Venice Film Festival directors stated the film 'exposes the systematic genocide of the Palestinian people by the Israeli government' and expressed solidarity with the filmmakers and the Palestinian people. Meanwhile, the IDF has reportedly launched an investigation into the leak of materials used in the film, seeking assistance from the Shin Bet.